Govt cracks down on illegal polythene usage despite ban

Despite strict government regulations against the sale and usage of polythene, unauthorized sales and usage continue in full swing. Teams of stern officials from the Punjab government have conducted raids on shops in the city to curb the illegal sale and usage of polythene.

The Punjab government had earlier imposed a ban on the use and sale of illegal polythene, but large-scale violations involving plastic bags and other banned plastic items have been rampant in the market. In response to this, teams of officials have been formed by the Bathinda Police Control Board, led by the SDM and officials from the Corporation, to crack down on establishments where polythene use is more prevalent, such as shops, showrooms, and hotels.

Raids have been conducted, and large-scale plastic items have been seized and confiscated. On-site penalties have been imposed by the officials conducting the raids. The SDM of the Pollution Control Board mentioned that despite the ban imposed by the government, some shopkeepers continue to use plastic, including bags, glasses, spoons, and other items. To address this issue, intensive checks have been initiated in Bathinda city, and similar checks are expected to follow in other districts.Sandeep Kataria, an official from the Bathinda Corporation, stated that warnings had been issued to these individuals earlier, but as they persisted in their habits, stringent actions have been taken against them.

He emphasized that such checks will continue to ensure compliance with the ban, and individuals violating the ban will face consequences.